Wisdom makes a slow defense against trouble, though a sure one in the end.

I was ever of the opinion, that the honest man who married and brought up a large family, did more service than he who continued single, and only talked of population.

Honour sinks where commerce long prevails.

Philosophy ... should not pretend to increase our present stock, but make us economists of what we are possessed of.

Philosophy can add to our happiness in no other manner but by diminishing our misery; it should not pretend to increase our present stock, but make us economists of what we are possessed of. Happy were we all born philosophers; all born with a talent of thus dissipating our own cares by spreading them upon all mankind.

I chose my wife, as she did her wedding gown, for qualities that would wear well.

A flattering painter, who made it his care To draw men as they ought to be, not as they are.